Geek Appeal: New gadgets & apps on the block

The Tech Panda takes a look at recently launched gadgets & apps in the market.

Chargers: 65W True GaN Charger Compatible with Laptops, Phones & more at just INR1,399

Oakter launched its 65W True GaN Charger, a next-generation fast charging solution designed to meet the needs of modern devices. With a launch price of just INR1,399, the charger comes with a 1.5m USB-C cable included, offering premium value and convenience, and is available on Amazon.

Shishir Gupta, CEO of Oakter, said, “We know that people rely on their devices every day, and charging should never get in the way. The 65W True GaN Charger is designed to keep devices powered safely and reliably, so users can focus on what matters most. We have considered every detail, from the secure fit of the plug to sustained high-speed charging, to ensure a seamless experience at home, at work, or on the go. Our goal with this launch was to make charging effortless for all devices with USB-C port, dependable, and worry-free, and we are confident it will make a real difference for our users.”

Features

• With adaptive single charger for both mobile phones & laptops
• Ultra-compact, lightweight, secure 3-pin plug & sustained 65W fast charging
• Available on Amazon
• India-specific 3-pin plug, engineered for a secure and stable fit.

Consumer electronics: 15.6-Inch WiFi App-Based Digital Photo Frame

XElectron, Indian homegrown consumer electronics and smart home technology brand, launched its 15.6-inch touch screen WiFi App-based Digital Photo Frame, an advanced device designed to keep families, friends, and loved ones emotionally connected in the most effortless way. Launched in the midst of the festive season, the product also makes for a perfect gifting option — blending technology with emotion to let people share memories and moments instantly.

Gagan Sharma, Managing Director at XElectron Technologies, said: “At XElectron, our mission has always been to create products that make technology human-centric. The 15.6-inch WiFi App-based Digital Photo Frame does exactly that, it transforms how we share memories, offering a smart yet personal solution for staying connected. This product is not just a device, but a channel that strengthens bonds across distances. Hence, can be considered as the perfect gifting option to your loved ones this festive season.”

Features

• WiFi-enabled sharing through the mobile app for instant photo and video uploads
• Support for multiple formats, including images, video clips, and music playback
• User-friendly interface for smooth navigation and control. The intuitive touch screen is much easier to use than ever before.
• Expandable memory options for storing thousands of cherished memories
• Remote updates so friends and family can contribute to the frame’s gallery from anywhere

Audiotech: True Wireless Freedom Meets Bold Sound

Skullcandy, the lifestyle audio brand launched its latest innovation – the Uproar TWS true wireless earbuds. Designed for those who demand deep, punchy audio without compromise, the Uproar TWS delivers supreme audio with the freedom to go anywhere. Featuring quad microphones with Environmental Noise Cancellation – two per bud – ensure crystal-clear calls even in noisy environments, while Bluetooth® 5.4 connectivity provides stable, efficient performance.

“At Skullcandy, innovation has always been about bringing together superior sound and lifestyle-driven design. We are thrilled to introduce the Uproar TWS to India, a product that captures the essence of Skullcandy’s bold spirit while delivering practical features for modern listeners,” said Amlan Bhattacharjya, Founder & CEO at Brandeyes Distributors Pvt Ltd, the sole India partner for Skullcandy.

Features

• Using 10 mm drivers, giving users energy-immersive, high-fidelity listening experiences.
• With multipoint pairing, touch controls, sweat and water resistance, low latency, and user-friendly features
• Two hours of playtime after only 10 minutes of Type-C charging
• Available at a limited-time Launch offer price of Rs 2499, the Uproar TWS will come in a premium Black Matte (model S2IW-WSO31) finish, ideal for contemporary styles.

Smart wearables: Triphop® Smart Backpacks with In-Built Charging and Tech-First Features

Nu Republic®, the lifestyle technology brand unveiled its all new Triphop® Voyager Series of smart backpacks. Designed for deep track listeners, music lovers, and culture drivers who live life off the beaten path, the backpacks combine utility with bold design and tech-first features. Starting at INR 1,099, the collection is now available on Amazon.in, Blinkit, and www.nurepublic.co. As part of the launch, Nu Republic announced acclaimed actor Abhay Deol as brand ambassador for the Triphop® line.

“Our fans have been asking us to shake up the boring world of travel gear, and we heard them loud and clear. With Triphop, we’re bringing the same tech-inspired drip that made our audio gear iconic, now designed to move. And with Abhay on board not just as a collaborator but a co-creator, this multi-year partnership is about to set a whole new standard,” said Ujjwal Sarin, Founder, Nu Republic.

Features

• Triphop Voyager Nomad Backpack: Created for travel and transitions, the Nomad blends ballistic nylon durability with sleek, minimalist lines. Stealth metal zips, smart interior pockets, and dual charging ports ensure both practicality and style. Its design caters to commuters, flyers, and explorers who need gear that adapts as quickly as they do. Introductory price: INR 2999
• Triphop Voyager Drift Backpack: Offering both style and substance, the Drift features four main compartments, a padded laptop section, and multifunctional inner pockets. Its design balances rugged toughness with a polished finish. Dual charging ports, a luxury embossed logo, and splash- and dust-resistant materials make it ideal for professionals who juggle work and leisure seamlessly. Introductory price: INR 2499
• Triphop Voyager Edge Backpack: The Edge combines a hard-shell exterior with water-resistant materials for added protection. Inside, a velvet-lined laptop compartment and a full-opening back section provide convenience and organisation. With four compartments, including an overnighter space, this bag works as well for short trips as it does for office commutes. Built-in dual charging ports and a trolley sleeve enhance travel-readiness. Introductory price: INR 1999
• Triphop Voyager Loop Sling Bag: Compact yet powerful, the Loop Sling is built with Velvex luxe fabric and reinforced with Core Guard technology. It features HydroLock waterproofing, a smart pocket layout, and a slim profile that carries more than it shows. Adjustable straps and ballistic nylon detailing make it a street-smart choice for those always on the move. Introductory price: INR 1599
• Triphop Voyager Evo Backpack: Built with water-resistant vegan leather and premium nylon fabric, the Evo is designed for everyday use. It features two spacious main compartments, a dedicated velvet-lined laptop section, and slip pockets for essentials. A padded back panel ensures comfort during long hours, while built-in USB-A and Type-C charging ports keep devices powered on the move. Its lightweight build, scratch resistance, and timeless design make it a versatile choice. Introductory price: INR 1099

Powerbanks: Rugged, Intelligent, and Built for Modern Power Needs

URBAN Smart Wearables, a homegrown technology brand launched its latest portable charging solutions – the URBAN CAMP Powerbank and URBAN CAMP 2 Powerbank. Purpose-built for today’s always-on lifestyles, the new lineup combines high-performance charging, durable designs, and smart technology to redefine how users power their devices on the go.

Aashish Kumbhat, Co-Founder of URBAN, said, “Everyday charging has become more complex, and we wanted to simplify it. CAMP and CAMP 2 are designed to deliver dependable power across devices while staying travel-ready. Our focus was on creating solutions that combine performance, durability, and ease of use – so users can work, play, and travel without worrying about battery life.”

Features

URBAN CAMP Powerbank

• 65W output, ideal for laptops, tablets, and smartphones
• 30,000mAh high-capacity battery
• Dual USB-A QC 3.0 ports + Dual Type-C PD outputs
• Supports 45W PPD fast charging
• Rugged armored body with intelligent IC technology
• Smart digital display

URBAN CAMP 2 Powerbank

• 22.5W output with USB-C PD + USB-A QC 3.0
• Retractable Type-C cable with easy-carry hook
• Two-way fast charging with 18W Type-C input
• Polycarbonate sturdy body with smart IC for charge distribution
• Smart digital display

App: Unique Health Scanning Feature on Its Mobile App

SBI General Insurance, an Indian general insurance company launched an innovative, unique health tracking feature on its mobile app, marking a significant advancement in health and wellness promotion. This new feature leverages advanced biometric technology to provide users with easy access to important health metrics through simple face and finger scans. The initiative offers a seamless, contactless, and tech-enabled approach to proactive wellness, designed to support users in taking charge of their health and well-being in real time.

Mohd. Arif Khan, Deputy Chief Executive Officer, SBI General Insurance, “This innovative health scanning feature is a major step towards offering accessible health insights beyond traditional insurance. It reflects our vision of a digitally empowered, health-conscious society, equipping individuals to actively manage their well-being. By integrating proactive wellness with ease, this feature positions us at the forefront of the health insurance sector, where innovation and convenience merge seamlessly with everyday life. The Company will continue to expand its technological capabilities to provide customers with advanced and user-friendly solutions.”

Features

• The health tracking feature, developed in collaboration with CarePlix, enables users to access vital health metrics such as heart rate, respiration rate, blood pressure, BMI, body weight, stress levels, total body fat, body water and more.
• By simply scanning their face or finger, users can quickly gain a comprehensive understanding of their health, empowering them to make informed decisions about their wellness.
• Utilizing CarePlix’s innovative remote photoplethysmography (rPPG) technology, this feature extracts health data from a simple video recording via the device’s camera or by fingerprint scanning, allowing users to monitor their health anytime, anywhere, without the need for physical sensors or needles.

Powerbank & Audiotech: Premium ‘Powerbox Pro Series’ Powerbanks and ‘JukeBox Pro’ Wireless Speaker Series

Lyne Originals, an Indian smart accessories and audio brands, launched its new premium, power-packed gadgets – the Powerbox Pro Powerbank Series (Powerbox 22 Pro Powerbank, Powerbox 17 Pro Powerbank and, Powerbox 18 Pro Powerbank) and the Jukebox Pro Wireless Speaker Series (Jukebox 7 Pro Speaker, Jukebox 8 Pro Speaker and, Jukebox 9 Pro Speaker).

Kavya Vij, Chief Product Office, Lyne Originals said, “We have launched one of our most premium range of powerbanks and speakers that strike the perfect balance between powerful performance, elegant design, and user-friendly features.  The powerbanks are designed keeping in mind the long hours people spend outside their homes, whether working or gallivanting now that the festivities are in full swing,  while the speakers ensure no moment is dull letting everyone dance and sing their hearts out with loved ones. Convenience, performance and style are at the heart of our latest products, integrating the best of tech innovation. Our aim is for Lyne is to power work, celebration and the everyday hustle in between for every Indian”.

Features

• Powerbox Pro Powerbank Series (Powerbox 17 Pro, Powerbox 18 Pro and Powerbox 22 Pro): Up to 2 USB and 2 Type-C inbuilt ports, In-built Type-C cable and Lightning cables, Up to 20,000 mAh fast charging capacity, Multi protocol power output, up to PD 70W fast charging, HD LED display
• Jukebox Pro Wireless Speaker Series ((Jukebox 7 Pro Speaker, Jukebox 8 Pro Speaker and, Jukebox 9 Pro Speaker): RGB lights,  TWS functionality, Up to 360W of deep-bass sound, Multiple in-built speakers, remote control and a karaoke mic included, Multiple connectivity options including USB, TF, MIC, and Bluetooth (up to 10 meters range), Playtime for up to 3 hours.

Travel: Enhancing Passenger Experience with Smart Switch and Convenient City Pickup Guide Videos

IntrCity SmartBus, India’s tech-enabled intercity bus service, announced two new initiatives aimed at making long-distance travel more seamless, flexible, and stress-free. The company has introduced ‘Smart Switch’, a feature that allows passengers to modify their boarding or drop-off points, travel date, time, bus, or route up to two hours before departure. This empowers travellers with greater flexibility to adapt to last-minute changes without the hassle of cancellations. Smart Switch has already been adopted by thousands of passengers, leading to a 30% reduction in cancellations, since travelers can now conveniently modify their booking due to change in travel plans instead of missing their bus.

“These initiatives are part of our continued effort to remove friction from intercity travel and make the experience as smooth as possible, right from the moment a passenger books a ticket to the time they reach their destination,” said Manish Rathi, Co-founder & CEO of IntrCity SmartBus. “Smart Switch puts real flexibility in the hands of travellers, giving them the confidence to book without worrying about changing plans, while our pickup videos make the very first step of the journey predictable and stress-free. Together, these solutions reinforce our commitment to using technology and thoughtful design to solve real passenger pain points and set a new benchmark for intercity mobility in India.”

Features

• 30% reduction in cancellations due to change in travel plans with Smart Switch
• 85% drop in boarding-related enquiries with city pickup guide videos
• Thousands of passengers are already benefiting, making festive travel more flexible and stress-free.

EV: Next-Gen Gracyi in 3 variants Run 140 km on single charge

ZELIO E Mobility, Indian electric two-wheeler company launched the facelift version of its much-loved low-speed electric scooter, Gracyi. Designed for today’s dynamic urban commuters, the upgraded Gracyi brings improved performance, superior comfort, and a suite of everyday features tailored for students, professionals, and gig workers. With this refresh, ZELIO strengthens its commitment to delivering smart, sustainable, and accessible mobility solutions.

Kunal Arya, Co-Founder and Managing Director of ZELIO E Mobility, said, “With the facelifted Gracyi, we are bringing together design, efficiency, and innovation to meet the evolving needs of Indian commuters. Our goal has always been to make electric mobility not just aspirational, but practical and accessible. The Gracyi embodies this vision with improved range, enhanced ground clearance, and rider-friendly features that make it a reliable partner for everyday journeys.”

Features

• The facelifted Gracyi is being offered in three distinct battery configurations to cater to varied commuting needs:
• Lithium-Ion Battery Variant: 60V/30Ah; Priced at INR66000/- Ex-Showroom; Range: 90~100 km
• Gel Battery Variants: 60V/32Ah; Priced at INR54000/- Ex-Showroom; Range: 80~90 km 72V/42Ah; Priced at INR58500/- Ex-Showroom; Range: 130~140 km

Gaming: World of Tanks Enters a New Era with Update 2.0 – Celebrating 15 Years of Evolution

Wargaming launched World of Tanks 2.0, the biggest update in the game’s 15-year history. This release marks a new era for the iconic title, transforming the experience for veterans and newcomers alike with modernized systems, smarter gameplay, and the widest range of giveaways the game has seen since launch.

World of Tanks is a team-based online game where players take control of legendary tanks from the 20th century and face off in tactical battles. Players choose from a massive arsenal of over 800 meticulously recreated tanks from 11 nations, each belonging to one of five unique classes, from fast-moving scouts to powerful heavy armor. Every machine plays differently, which means no two battles are ever the same.

“World of Tanks 2.0 is our way of saying thank you to the community that has stood with us for 15 years. Every update, every battle, and every story has been shaped by our players, and this new chapter is a celebration of their passion and dedication that continues to drive the game forward. We’ve modernized the foundation, added new depth for veterans, and made the entry experience more exciting for newcomers. Whether you’ve been away for years or you’re just starting, now is the perfect time to jump back into the battlefield.” said a spokesperson from Wargaming.

Features

• Update 2.0 represents the most ambitious step forward for the title yet. The Garage, long the heart of the game, has been completely reimagined into a cinematic, factory-inspired hub where every tank feels like a centerpiece.
• A brand-new armor viewer now lets players study details, plan strategies, and spot weak points directly in-game, making it easier than ever to understand the strengths and weaknesses of each vehicle.
• Adding to an already stacked Tier I to X, sixteen new Tier XI vehicles debuting with unique mechanics, while gameplay has been modernized with smarter matchmaking, fairer balance, and stronger stock tanks that make battles exciting right from the first match.
• Another highlight of the update is Operation Boiling Point, the latest chapter in World of Tanks’ evolving Story Mode. While PvP has always been the beating heart of the game, Story Missions offer something different: a narrative-driven, cooperative way to play that helps new players ease in while giving veterans a fresh challenge.
• Update 2.0 makes the game more accessible than ever, both to new and returning gamers. It has a cleaner interface, smoother progression, and easier-to-understand mechanics that lower the barrier to entry.
• Combined with dynamic events, authentic tank sounds recorded from real machines, and the thrill of battles that feel alive from the very first shot, World of Tanks 2.0 is built to meet the expectations of today’s Indian players.